Mini-PC Review: GEEKOM MiniAir 11

Introduction

• Focus on mini PCs
• Addressing community questions
• Personal favorite: sweet spot in performance and power consumption

Key Features

• Efficiency & Power Consumption:
  • Only needs about 6W in normal use
  • Can go up to 35W
• Compact and Silent:
  • Small form-factor
  • Low noise level

Hardware Spec

• Processor (CPU):
  • Chipsatz N100
  • 4 efficiency cores, no hyper-threading
• Storage:
  • 512 GB NVMe Lexar SSD
• Memory:
  • 16 GB DDR5 RAM
  • Expandable up to 48 GB
• Ports:
  • Front: 2 USB (10 Gbit/s), 1 USB-C, 1 USB-A
  • Rear: 2 USB-A (10 Gbit/s), HDMI, Ethernet, Mini DisplayPort
• Expandable Storage Options:
  • Additional SATA drives possible

Software & Performance

• Windows Performance:
  • Cinebench R23 scores:
    • Default Windows: ~2200 points
    • After optimization: ~2700 points
• Versatility:
  • Suitable for everyday tasks and office use
  • Compatible with virtual machines and server applications
• Supported Tasks:
  • Office work, multiple monitors setup
  • Streaming (YouTube, Netflix), light gaming

Advanced Use Cases

• Operating Systems:
  • Supports multiple OS: Windows, Unraid, other Linux distributions
• Streaming Setup:
  • Jellyfin for personal media streaming over the network
  • Handles 4K 120Hz playback and transcoding efficiently
  • GPU acceleration (Intel QSV) utilized for video tasks
• Docker & Virtualization:
  • Possible to run Docker containers for various applications
  • Ideal for light server or NAS setup

Additional Features

• Customization Options:
  • BIOS unlock for advanced feature access
  • User customization for performance tweaks and settings
• Peripheral Support:
  • Bluetooth, WiFi, HDMI, DisplayPort
  • Supports multiple monitors and external devices

Practical Application

• Home Network Setup:
  • Can act as a transcode server, home automation server
  • Use as a backup relay, smart home controller
  • Efficient and low power consumption compared to full-sized PCs

Price & Conclusion

• Affordability:
  • Costing around 280 EUR
  • Good value for features and performance
• Link & Discount:
  • Purchase link and discount code provided
• Recommendation:
  • Excellent for mini-PC enthusiasts looking for performance on a budget
  • Versatile for various lightweight server and home network tasks

Note: Advanced users can unlock BIOS for more settings but risk system instability.